Some might gasp at the idea, but cycling with infants is more common – and perhaps safer – than you think. I started cycling with my babies when they were around 8 weeks old. While neighbors might have raised eyebrows, my infants were securely nestled, like burritos in an infant sling, within a robust Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Single Stroller. This high-quality trailer, worth more than some used cars, was hitched to my sturdy cruiser bike. We weren’t speeding, and we stuck to smooth bike paths and quiet roads.
Cycling with Infants: Challenging the Norm
Is using an Infant Bike trailer or sling right for your family? Searching online for information about cycling with infants or newborns often yields surprisingly little. However, instead of being deterred by the lack of mainstream information, consider looking at places where cycling with babies is a normal and accepted part of life, like in other parts of the world. There, it’s seen as a safe and practical way to travel with young children.
To me, pulling a child in a trailer behind my bike feels comparable to pushing them in a stroller. Think about friends who live miles down bumpy, pothole-filled roads. Their babies experience jostling in car seats daily, and they grow up just fine. Despite this, the Thule Chariot infant sling itself has a stark warning: “Do not use with the cycling kit, serious injury or death may occur.” It’s a strong caution, suggesting that even those investing in premium gear should be wary.
Understanding the Risks and Safety Measures for Infant Bikes
It’s crucial to remember that newborns are delicate. Their heads are proportionally larger, and their neck muscles are still developing. Shaking or sudden movements are definitely to be avoided, and unlike toddlers, they can’t tell you if they’re uncomfortable. Waiting until at least 3-6 months old is generally advisable. However, for parents eager to start sooner, like myself, minimizing risks is key.
Here are some essential considerations for safe cycling with an infant bike trailer:
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Invest in Quality Gear: Choose a trailer with a good suspension and roll cage system. The Thule Chariot Cougar Single Stroller is a solid option known for its safety features.
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Provide Proper Support: Ensure your infant has adequate body and head support. An infant sling is designed to hold infants securely. Another option is the Baby Snuggler from Burley, which is also designed for infant support in trailers.
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Car Seat Integration (Proceed with Caution): Some parents opt to secure a car seat within a Chariot or Burley trailer. This involves installing the car seat base and clicking the seat in for rides. While this adds familiarity and potentially more structure, always verify compatibility and safety guidelines from both the trailer and car seat manufacturers.
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Skip the Helmet (For Infants): Helmets are standard safety gear for cycling in the US, but not for babies in trailers. A helmet can add extra weight to a baby’s head, potentially pushing it forward and causing strain. Straps can also be an issue. Instead, prioritize a head supporter like the Thule Baby Supporter, which is designed for this purpose.
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Choose Smooth, Safe Routes: Stick to smooth bike paths and roads to minimize bumps and vibrations.
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Avoid Traffic: Steer clear of busy roads and areas with heavy bike or car traffic. Smaller towns often offer quieter, safer environments for cycling with infants.
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Consider Cargo Bikes: For a different approach, explore cargo bikes like the Madsen cargo bike. These bikes are designed to safely transport children, including babies and toddlers, and can be an eco-friendly family transportation solution.
Your Thoughts on Infant Bike Safety?
What are your experiences or opinions on cycling with a baby? Is it a responsible way to introduce infants to the outdoors, or does it cross a line? Sharing experiences and perspectives helps parents make informed decisions about infant bike safety and what works best for their families.
